Crews successfully rescue young bald eagle, return it to nest

FRANKLIN, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Game Commission successfully rescued a young bald eagle and placed it back in its nest.

Local citizens contacted the Northwest Region Office on May 22 advising that a young eagle was out of the nest and on the ground.

Wildlife Conservation Officer Lawrence Hergenroeder along with Deputy Wildlife Conservation Officer Ron Richman responded to the incident and retrieved and transported the bird to Skye’s Spirit Rehabilitation Center in Harrisville.

The bird was evaluated and spent several days rehabilitating prior to the release.  Local Lawrence County WCO Byron Gibbs made contact with the Ellwood City fire department to assist.  The Fire Department evaluated the scene and determined that they could use a fire truck with a 100 foot boom to facilitate the release.

Butler County WCO Chris Deal, who has extensive experience with raptors, was tasked with placing the eagle back in its nest.  The operation was successfully completed at approximately 1 p.m. and one of the adult eagles soared over the nest minutes after the youngster was released.

“This was a highly unusual situation.  This nest had only one young bird so there was an opportunity to attempt a reintroduction.  We have not released the exact location of this nest to minimize disturbance from the public. We could not have succeeded in this endeavor without the cooperation of the local citizens, Skye’s Spirit Rehabilitation Center, and the Ellwood City Fire Department,” PA Game Commission Northwest Region Wildlife Management Supervisor Roger Coup said.

WPXI